House Republicans to hold leadership elections Oct. 8

Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives will hold leadership elections on Oct. 8, House Speaker John Boehner said on Wednesday.

“After consulting with our conference, a large majority of our members have made clear they want these elections held next week. With their considerations in mind, the House leadership elections will take place on Thursday, Oct. 8," Boehner said in an emailed statement.

Boehner announced last Friday that he will step down as Speaker effective Oct. 30.

On Oct. 8, the Republicans will choose their candidate for his replacement as well as their choices for other party positions. At a later date, the full House will have to vote on the Speaker. That date has not yet been announced.

(Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Susan Heavey)